Rome’s best contemporary art galleries

Tucked away in Rome’s historic Trastevere district, T293 is housed in a striking steel-beamed building. Since its founding in 2002 by Paola Guadagnino and Marco Altavilla, the gallery has become a launchpad for emerging artists and experimental exhibitions. T293 represents talents such as James Beckett, Claire Fontaine and Henrik Olai Kaarstein – artists who have gone on to exhibit at prestigious venues like London’s Tate Modern, the Venice Biennale and Frieze New York. The gallery’s commitment to innovation makes it a must-visit for discovering the next big names in contemporary art.

Via Ripense 6, 00153 Rome

This former pasta factory, dating back to 1905, was transformed in the 1980s by a collective of artists who converted its lofts and courtyard into studios. In 2005, Flavio Misciattelli established the Fondazione Pastificio Cerere to nurture and promote young Italian artists. Today, it’s a creative hub, home to fashion ateliers, a photography school and an academy of fine arts, alongside the building’s airy exhibition spaces. Visitors can explore a dynamic mix of solo and group shows, often featuring mixed-media works and exclusive installations.

Via degli Ausoni 7, 00185 Rome

MACRO is a landmark of Rome’s contemporary art scene. Set in a former Peroni brewery designed by Gustavo Giovannoni and completed in 1932, the museum was renovated in the late 1990s. Its glass roof and expansive windows flood the space with natural light, illuminating the galleries and café. As well as regular temporary exhibitions, it rotates its permanent collection, which includes Piero Dorazio’s abstract

paintings and digital works by Sarah Ciracì, who is inspired by science fiction and dreams. The museum also features a bookshop, library, auditorium and event spaces, making it a perfect stop off for any art-lover.

Via Nizza 138, 00198 Rome

Founded by Massimo Scrocca in 2013, Varsi is dedicated to urban contemporary art. The gallery has exhibited works by renowned street artists such as Broken Fingaz, Etam Cru, Etnik and Herakut, as well as American illustrator Jeremy Fish. In 2019, the gallery expanded with Varsi Art & Lab, focusing on artist residencies and experimental projects such as limited-edition screen prints.

Via di Affogalasino 34, 00148 Rome

Founder Lorcan O’Neill doesn’t care if an artist is old, young, new to the game or a household name. He just knows quality art when he sees it – perhaps thanks to the years he spent as an art dealer. After working with the painter Cy Twombly in Rome, the Irish Londoner moved to the Italian capital, bringing a contemporary British touch to the Eternal City. He’s since hosted exhibitions by the likes of Tracey Emin, Giorgio Griffa, Eddie Peake, and a new generation of Italian artists, making it a key player on Rome’s international art scene.

Vicolo dei Catinari 3, 00186 Rome